With an infinity pool that seemingly drops into the Indian Ocean beyond and under the watchful gaze of a traditional red and white lighthouse, Oyster box is your quintessentially colonial seaside hotel with an elegant modern polish.

Perched on the rocks of the Umhlanga coast with waves lapping at its terraces, a mere 5 minutes from Umhlanga village and 20 minutes from Durban’s centre this hotel’s location is both comfortably convenient and impressively sited for both shorter to more relaxed stays.

The interiors are smart and follow the lines of its original 1947 colonial design, however renovations over the years have given it a modern facelift and sophistication. Its 86 rooms are sumptuous and well- appointed, with some commanding spectacular views.

Even if your room doesn’t have a panorama, the pool, dining rooms, terraces, lounge and bars all make good use of theirs.